How to apply for Oregon Project Independence (OPI and OPI-M) — in-home help
Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Aging and People with Disabilities, through local APD and Area Agency on Aging offices
Who it's for
Oregon Project Independence (OPI) helps adults stay in their homes. It is for people 60 or older, or people of any age with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, who do not have Medicaid long-term care. Services can include personal care, housekeeping, home-delivered meals, transportation, and support for unpaid family caregivers. OPI is funded by the state and has no income or asset limits; you pay part of the cost on a sliding scale. Some areas have a waiting list. A Medicaid-funded version, OPI-M, is free for adults who need help with personal care and have income up to $5,320 a month (2026) and savings and assets up to $103,645 (July 2026 to June 2027). To apply, call or visit your local Aging and People with Disabilities (APD) or Area Agency on Aging (AAA) office, or call the ADRC at 1-855-673-2372.
You must be assessed as at risk of needing to leave home for care, and you cannot be getting other ODHS financial help except SNAP and Medicare premium help. People with the highest need are served first where there is a waiting list. OPI-M has its own income and asset limits. The local APD or AAA office makes the final decision.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- In-home needs assessment by the local APD or AAA office
- Household income and monthly medical costs (for the OPI sliding-scale fee)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-855-673-2372
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Oregon Project Independence (OPI and OPI-M) — in-home help. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need in-home needs assessment by the local APD or AAA office, household income and monthly medical costs (for the OPI sliding-scale fee) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.